Choosing to start or grow your family is a significant and personal decision. One that can be filled with hope, excitement, and sometimes uncertainties – especially when it involves in vitro fertilization (IVF).
For women over 40, considering IVF often comes with its own set of questions, which is why it’s important to have a solid understanding of what IVF over 40 could look like, its outcomes, and how it might differ from an IVF experience in your 20s and 30s. At Fertility Partnership, we’re here to help you with the care and professional insight needed to make an informed decision about your personal IVF journey, no matter what your age may be.
Success Rates
Firstly, it’s important to consider the success rate of IVF and how it can vary by age, with younger women generally having higher live birth success rates. According to the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, women under the age of 35 have a success rate around 40%, which gradually declines with age. For women over 40, success rates can be significantly lower, often ranging between 15-20%. But – that doesn’t mean it isn’t possible. It’s important to approach these statistics with hope and a clear understanding of your personal health profile, as each woman’s fertility story is unique.
Health Risks & Egg Quality
Egg quality diminishes as women age, potentially leading to increased health risks and complications with IVF treatments. It’s almost more likely to encounter challenges, such as chromosomal abnormalities in the embryo, which can affect the success of fertilization and lead to a higher risk of miscarriage. But, advancements in reproductive technology and preimplantation genetic testing can help mitigate a lot of these risks by selecting embryos with the best chance of leading to a successful pregnancy. Your care team at Fertility Partnership can walk you through these options, offering support and professional advice tailored to your health and circumstances.
Time to Conceive
Generally, the timeline to achieve pregnancy via IVF can be longer for women over 40. This extended period can be due to the need for more comprehensive evaluations, treatment cycles, or utilization of additional services, like donor eggs. Patience and perseverance, coupled with open communication with your fertility specialists, are key during this time. Remember, each step you take brings you closer to your goal.
Navigating Your IVF Journey with Compassion and Professionalism
For women over 40 considering IVF, it’s natural to face these decisions with a mix of emotions and questions. The differences compared to younger women in terms of success rates, health risks, costs, and time can seem daunting. Yet, with today’s medical advancements and the personalized care provided by fertility professionals, many women find hope and success on their fertility journeys.
Each person’s path to parenthood is unique, and while the road may be slightly more complex for women over 40, the goal remains a beautiful one. We encourage you to reach out, ask questions, and lean on the expertise of our fertility team that is dedicated to providing you with the support and information you need to make the best decisions for you and your future family.
At Fertility Partnership, we’re committed to making every patient feel supported, informed, and hopeful, regardless of where they are on their fertility journey. If you’re over 40 and considering IVF, we invite you to connect with us for a personalized consultation. Together, we’ll explore your options and support you every step of the way towards achieving your dream of becoming a parent.
